Freight Trains Could Be Stopping in Winchester

Winchester could see freight trains driving through town in the near future.

Over 25 residents crowded into the Board of Selectmen meeting room Monday night to oppose the possibility of having freight trains stopping in town.

According to Winchester resident Susan Busher, a railroad switch has been established by the Massachusetts Bay Commuter Railroad (MBCR) at Cross Street at the request of Tighe Trucking, Inc. She said that a railroad siding will be installed that will bring freight trains off the commuter rail for the delivery to the back side of Tighe Trucking at 45 Holton Street.

“We desperately require our town officials to protect us and our properties,” Busher said. “Time is of the essence. The railroad has installed the switch and is laying access track now.”

According to Acting Town Manager Mary Ellen Lannon, town management has looked at the issue, but she is not sure if the town can stop the construction.

“We’re still gathering all the pieces in order to have a full legal review,” Lannon said. “We need to find out what our jurisdiction boundaries are and what legal authority we have.”

Busher said that if freight trains are allowed access in Winchester they would be driving through town between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., as to not impact the commuter rail schedule.

“We feel time is of the essence,” Busher said. “Once the freight is ready to come down the town’s going to be in trouble. We won’t be able to stop it easily.”

Lannon said that she will continue to have staff pull records and research the situation to see what can be done.

“This is going to be done and finished before we have an opportunity to stop it if we drag our feet,” Busher said.